Brackan's Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns is a fantastic reference when you need inspiration or want to verify that a block you want to use is in the Public Domain. It does have drawings - and all their known names - of more than 4,000 blocks.
However, there are no descriptions of the blocks, no actual patterns, and no instructions. You have to figure out for yourself how to break them down for construction.
If you have the companion CD, Block Base, you can use it to generate piecing diagrams, any size, templates, numbered foundation patterns for paper or foundation piecing , rotary cutting instructions, and whole block designs in color, grayscale or outlines. You can use the software alone, or within the Electric Quilt software.
The prices you'll find charged for the book and CD vary. I've seen them for aroun $70 each, but also just found the book listed for only $28 (plus shipping, of course):
http://www.alibris.com/booksearch?qs...rbara+Brackman
it's more difficult to find the software at rock bottom prices. expect to pay at least $60.
i have both the book and the software. they are worth every penny. :P